A new, more invasive approach in the radiation diagnosis of breast cancer

The authors discuss the state-of-the-art techniques and the increasingly invasive approach to the diagnosis of breast diseases and also summarise their own experiences. Special attention is called to the nonpalpable, preclinical stage of breast cancers. The newest techniques like MR-mammography, stereo-taxic and ultrasound directed cytology and core biopsy are demonstrated, as well as the present place of traditional breast imaging methods: mammography and diagnostic ultrasound. The preoperative localisation of nonpalpable cancers improves the safety of surgical procedures. The authors emphasize the importance of the detection of early breast cancer, for the sake of a more favourable prognosis compared to that of the palpable, advanced cases. The results of mass screening is detailed, based on statistical data.